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Action Alert: Last chance to speak up in defense of Maine’s new National Monument

We have a few days left to weigh in with our comments in support of the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument. Your comments can help ensure this new national monument remains a protected piece of Maine’s landscape.

The Department of Interior (DOI) is accepting public comments as part of the Katahdin Woods & WatersTrump administration’s review of national monument designations through Monday, July 10. Katahdin Woods & Waters is part of that review.

What You Can Do

Visit the DOI comment page and submit your comment in support of the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument. Be sure to mention its value to Maine’s wildlife, people, and economy, and your perspective on the transparent, public process that was followed to create it.
Comments are being accepted until July 10, 2017.

The review is particularly focused on whether the Monument designation was made “Without Adequate Public Outreach and Coordination With Relevant Stakeholders.”

Many of you participated in the long, involved, public process that led to this designation. Be sure to emphasize the rigorous and transparent review process in your comment.

In terms of the benefits for Maine’s wildlife, the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument protects:

  • Riparian habitat along more than 30 miles of rivers and streams and at least seven ponds, which together are used by 85% of Maine vertebrates for feeding, nesting, resting, and traveling.
  • Habitat for over 75 species of birds, including migratory forest birds that depend on this internationally significant area as their primary breeding habitat.
  • Extensive wetlands, including Inland Waterfowl and Wading Bird Habitat designated as “Significant Wildlife Habitat” by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
  • Critical habitat for the federally endangered Canada lynx.
  • Important fish habitat  – especially for wild eastern brook trout and endangered Atlantic salmon.
  • Nine rare Natural Communities identified by the Maine Natural Areas Program.
  • Several rare aquatic species that require clean cold water, including species of freshwater mussel, dragonfly, and turtle.

As always, thank you for your dedication and support!Evelyn deFrees, Maine Audubon Staff Advocate

Evelyn deFrees
Maine Audubon Staff Advocate
207-781-2330

To sign up for Maine Audubon’s Action Alert e-mails, please click here.